To understand “pulsatile tinnitus,” it is helpful to know the difference between the two main types of hearing loss: “conductive” and “sensorineural.” Conductive loss is due to problems involving the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear; sensorineural loss involves problems of the inner ear. With this in mind, people suffering from a condition causing conductive hearing loss (such as a perforated eardrum) might become more aware of sounds from inside their bodies. Pulsatile tinnitus occurs when the ear becomes aware of a change in blood flow in nearby blood vessels, including the arteries and veins in the neck, base of the skull, and in the ear itself. The rhythmic noise beats in time with the pulse.
P.S. Ringing in the ears (“tinnitus”) is most often related to sensorineural hearing loss.
Whether you are hearing the sounds of tinnitus or not hearing the sounds of life around you, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a Doctor of Audiology at EAR & HEARING CLINIC. With the many options available today thanks to innovative, advanced technology, your ability to hear can be enhanced and so will your quality of life. We fit hearing devices for the whole family, including infants. Stop by soon, or call us to find out about having a hearing test. Our office is wheelchair accessible.
